From Staff Reports
The 10th Annual Welcome Home Celebration to honor area veterans will be held Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.
VA staff will also announce the entertainer for the 2018 Valentines for Veterans Concert during the opening ceremonies, according to a press release.
"We hope our community will join us in showing our support for America's veterans. The theme of the day is 'fun' and we are determined to see that our veterans and their families have a great time," said Dr. Patricia Hall, medical center director and retired U.S. army colonel.
The "Welcome Home" theme spotlights returning Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, but also serves to honor all those who have served their country, including those who never received a welcome home when they returned from service, according to VA staff.
Gates for the event will open at 9 a.m., with the opening ceremony starting at 10 a.m.
Sponsored in part by The Wake Foundation, the event is free and open to the public, organizers said. Colton's Steakhouse will cook hot dogs and hamburgers for attendees, while supplies last. Chips and fried pies will be served as well.
Live music, a flag exchange, free flu shots for veterans and informational booths will also be part of the event.
"This year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring entertainment such as (bands) Nuthin' Fancy, Swamp Whiskey and Shawn Boyer," said event coordinator John Cornelius. "Additional attractions will include a car and bike show, Smokey Bear (11-1), kids' crafting activities from The Home Depot, military vehicles, Air Evac, miniature horses and more."
The first 10 cars and bikes to register for the car/bike show will be located under the VIP tent, which includes some other special perks, too, Cornelius added.
A special "flag exchange" will take place at the Welcome Home while supplies last. Attendees can bring worn-out flags for proper retirement, and receive new flags to take home.
Flu shots will be available to veterans free of charge. Information booths will include the Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office, area Veterans' Service Organizations, civic groups, social services, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and more.
"I want to thank all of the area businesses and individuals who make this event possible by donating equipment and supplies," said Hall.
As part of the event, Hall and Robert Wake of The Wake Foundation will announce the entertainer for the 2018 Valentines for Veterans Concert. The will be posted on Facebook live as well.
For more information about the event, contact John Cornelius at 573-778-4429.